Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze: An Incredible 7-Ingredient Recipe

Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are an amazing autumn treat that perfectly captures the flavors of the season. It's hard not to be enamored with these delightful rings of sweetness, especially when they're topped with a luscious maple glaze. Both soft and moist, these donuts are not fried, making them a healthier option, yet they remain utterly indulgent. Whether it's a crisp fall morning or an exciting holiday gathering, these donuts bring warmth and nostalgia to every bite.

As the aroma of pumpkin spice wafts through your kitchen, it’s nearly impossible to resist sneaking a taste. If you’ve ever longed for that warm hug of flavor that only fall can provide, you’ll find that this recipe delivers just that. Made with simple ingredients, these Baked Pumpkin Donuts are perfect for experienced bakers and novices alike. This guide will walk you through the process, allowing you to create a batch that will impress friends and family, leaving them craving more.

In addition, the versatility of these donuts means you can easily customize them. Whether you prefer them with a hint of nutmeg or topped with crispy bacon bits, these Baked Pumpkin Donuts will surely become a hit. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe special!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze is straightforward and doesn’t require extensive time in the kitchen. Here’s how long you’ll need:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Cooling Time: 10 minutes

Overall, you can enjoy these delicious donuts in less than an hour from start to finish, making them a quick and satisfying treat for any time of day.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or cinnamon)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (for glaze)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Baking Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze is easy when you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a donut pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Whisk until combined.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, milk, vegetable oil, and sugar. Mix well until smooth.
4. Add Egg: Beat in the egg into the wet mixture, ensuring it is well incorporated.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Fill the Donut Pan: Spoon or pipe the batter into the greased donut pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full.
7. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Cool: Remove the pan from the oven and let the donuts cool for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
9. Prepare the Glaze: In a separate bowl, mix the powdered sugar and maple syrup until smooth and drizzle-able. Adjust the consistency with more maple syrup or powdered sugar, if needed.
10. Glaze the Donuts: Once the donuts are cool, dip the tops in the maple glaze or drizzle it over the donuts for a beautiful finish.

These steps will guide you in making these incredible donuts that everyone will rave about!

How to Serve

Serving Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze can elevate the overall experience. Here are some tips on how to make the most out of these delightful treats:

1. Presentation is Key: Arrange the glazed donuts on a decorative platter or use a cake stand for an eye-catching display.
2. Warm Up: Serve the donuts warm for that comforting fresh-baked feeling. A quick 10-second warm-up in the microwave can do wonders!
3. Pair with Beverages: Complement your donuts with warm beverages like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
4. Garnish Options: Consider garnishing with chopped nuts, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a dash of nutmeg for an extra flavor kick.
5. Share the Joy: These donuts are perfect for sharing. Make a larger batch for parties or gatherings to spread the joy of fall flavors.

With these serving suggestions, your Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze will shine not only in taste but also in presentation, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who enjoys them!

Additional Tips

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: For the best flavor, consider making your own pumpkin puree from fresh pumpkins. It adds a richer taste compared to canned varieties.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices in this recipe. Adding a pinch of ginger or cardamom can give your donuts a unique twist!
• Check Doneness: To ensure perfect baking, do the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick in the center of the donuts; if it comes out clean, they are ready.

Recipe Variation

Mix things up with these fun variations of Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze:

1. Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Donuts: Fold in some mini chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet surprise in every bite.
2. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to cater to dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
3. Stuffed Donuts: Try filling the center of the donuts with your favorite jam or nut butter before baking for an exciting twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep your donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator.
• Freezing: Baked pumpkin donuts can be frozen! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them and then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw or reheat them before serving.

Special Equipment

You will need some essential tools to ensure your baking goes smoothly:

• Donut Pan: A non-stick donut pan is crucial for achieving that perfect donut shape.
• Mixing Bowls: Use a couple of different sized mixing bowls for combining wet and dry ingredients.
• Whisk: A whisk helps ensure your mixtures are smooth and well-combined.
• Piping Bag or Ziplock: To easily fill the donut pan, you can use a piping bag or a ziplock with the corner cut off.

Conclusion

Baked Pumpkin Donuts with Maple Glaze are not only a delicious treat but also a perfect way to celebrate fall. With their moist texture and sweet, flavorful glaze, these donuts become an instant favorite for anyone who tries them. They offer a delightful combination of indulgence and health, making them perfect for any occasion. So whether you’re enjoying them at home or sharing with friends, these donuts bring warmth and joy to the season.